Faxon Animal Rescue League has several cats that need to be adopted soon

Life in a cage is a reality for shelter pets, but they’re not meant to live there permanently. The Faxon Animal Rescue League is hoping to move some of its long-term residents out of the cages and into new homes.

Life in a cage is a reality for shelter pets, but it’s not meant to be a long-term solution.

The Faxon Animal Rescue League is hoping to move some of its long-term residents out of the cages and into new homes.

“There are several kitties that have been here for several years — not weeks, not days, not months, but years,” said Debbie Rodrigues, Faxon adoption councilor. “They’ve been here way too long and they want to go home for the new year.”

Dorie, an 8-year-old blue-gray colored female, is Faxon’s longest-staying resident. She’s been there since July 2009.

Patty, a pastel tortie, has called the shelter home since November 2010. Narissa, a black cat with bright yellow eyes, has been at Faxon since August 2010.

Snickerdoodle, another pastel tortie, has been there since January 2012, followed by Pharaoah, a striking long-haired multi-colored cat, who came to the shelter in May 2012.

“It’s almost like they’ve become institutionalized,” Rodrigues said. “They can regress.”

While all of the cats are friendly, they’ve developed attitudes and fears due to their long stay.

They might try to scratch or bite when handled for too long, and need homes with experienced cat owners. Rodrigues said it’s best if the owners have no small children.

“Some have had enough,” said Renee Dumont, shelter manager. “They’re not bad. They’re just tired of being here.”

Dumont said there’s a large volunteer staff that socializes the cats and spends extra time with these particular felines. But, it’s no match for a permanent home. “They’re distressed,” Dumont said.

Faxon is willing to adopt out these particular cats for a reasonable donation fee.

“We’re no-kill. They stay until they get adopted,” Rodrigues said.

Faxon also runs a program to connect senior cats to senior people. Those adoptions cost $45. The usual adoption price is $100.

All cats that are adopted from Faxon are spayed or neutered and have had their shots and wellness checks.

To learn more about these cats and others up for adoption, visit Faxon at 474 Durfee St. Call 508-676-1061 or visit www.arlfr.org.

Shelter hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The shelter is closed on Sunday and Monday.